Caterpillar Grass
Harpochloa falx
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Harpochloa falx is a clumping ornamental grass characterized by its arching, narrow foliage and airy, spike-like flower heads that create a soft, wispy appearance in the landscape. This species is valued for its fine-textured foliage and its ability to provide visual interest and movement in borders and ornamental grasses displays.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings with water to promote root growth.
- Water regularly during first growing season for establishment.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune dead or damaged foliage in late winter.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Divide every few years to maintain vigor 🌱
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture 🌱
- Prune dead foliage in late winter 🌱
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Ignore drainage issues ❌
- Neglect pruning ❌
- Use heavy clay soil without amendment ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Caterpillar Grass questions
What zones can Caterpillar Grass grow in?
Caterpillar Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Caterpillar Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Caterpillar Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Caterpillar Grass bloom?
Caterpillar Grass typically blooms in mid-summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Caterpillar Grass need full sun?
Caterpillar Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Caterpillar Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Caterpillar Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
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Grow Caterpillar Grass with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
